Doctronic

6 Essential Tasks to Prepare for a Planned Hospital Stay

Jerome Albert Ecker | MD

Medically reviewed by Jerome Albert Ecker | MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Duke University - Durham, NC on June 28th, 2024.

Key Takeaways

  • Print and bring current medical documents including medication lists with exact dosages, emergency contacts, chronic conditions, and advance directives since hospital records are often outdated and missing critical information.

  • Daily toothbrushing during hospitalization significantly reduces pneumonia risk by decreasing oral bacteria that can travel to the lungs—request help from nursing staff if you're unable to maintain oral hygiene independently.

  • Pack extra clothes and personal supplies for at least 3-5 days beyond your expected stay, as 30-40% of planned procedures result in longer hospitalizations or transfers to rehabilitation facilities.

  • Designate a "discharge buddy" to be present when you're released—patients typically receive 10-15 pages of discharge instructions covering medications, wound care, and follow-up appointments that are difficult to process alone.

  • Arrange transportation home in advance since you cannot drive for 24-48 hours after anesthesia or sedation, and many pain medications impair reaction time and judgment for several days post-procedure.

When you know you'll be hospitalized for a few days, such as for an elective procedure, it's important to do more than just pack a small bag before you go. Here are six essential tasks to add to your to-do list to ensure a smoother hospital stay and recovery.

1. Print Important Documents

Your hospital may not have the most current information in your file, even if you've been there before and your doctor is affiliated with the facility. Be proactive and pack printed copies of the following documents:

  • A list of your emergency contacts, chronic conditions, medications (including supplements), and their doses

  • A copy of your advance directive, which may include a living will, health care proxy form, and/or POLST (physician orders for life-sustaining treatment) form

These documents provide essential information that doctors use to make decisions about your care. You can download advance directive forms for free from your state's website or through organizations like AARP.

2. Alert Your Health Care Proxy

Inform your designated health care proxy about your upcoming hospital stay and discuss your preferences for medical care in case you're unable to make decisions for yourself. Your proxy can only help you if they understand your wishes.

3. Pack a Little Extra

Sometimes, planned short hospital stays can turn into longer ones or lead to a stay in a rehabilitation facility. Pack extra clothes, electronic devices, and chargers, or prepare an additional bag to leave at home that a friend can deliver if needed.

6 Essential Tasks to Prepare for a Planned Hospital Stay

4. Establish a Toothbrushing Plan

Good oral hygiene, including daily toothbrushing, can lower the risk of pneumonia by decreasing the amount of bacteria in the mouth. Ask a friend, family member, or your nurse to help ensure that your teeth are brushed daily during your hospital stay.

5. Get a Discharge Buddy

When it's time to leave the hospital, your nurse will provide you with care instructions. However, this can be a time to receive a lot of information. Ask a friend to be present at discharge, either in person or on the phone, to take notes and ask questions about medication changes, warning signs, follow-up appointments, and more.

6. Arrange a Ride Home

Many people remember to arrange transportation to the hospital but forget about the ride home. It's not recommended to drive yourself. Ask a friend, or inquire about ride opportunities through your doctor's office, religious organization, or senior center. If you can afford it, consider hiring a health aide to drive you and help you settle in at home.

By completing these six tasks before your planned hospital stay, you'll be better prepared for a smoother experience and recovery. Remember, a little advance planning can go a long way in ensuring your well-being and peace of mind.

For more information on preparing for a hospital stay, visit:

The Bottom Line

Successful hospital preparation centers on having current medical documentation, extra supplies, and reliable support people in place before admission. The most critical step is securing someone to help you understand discharge instructions and provide transportation home safely. If you're planning a hospital stay and need guidance on preparation steps, Doctronic can help ensure you're fully ready.

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